If you're looking to partake in the Caribbean celebration of Carnival, you need not go out of the United States. Orlando Carnival has its own version of the celebration of Caribbean music, dance, and culture this Memorial Day weekend.
Carnival, usually taking place the day before Lent, is a celebration originated by Catholics for bringing in Lent. From May 26th to May 29th, the Orlando Carnival, hosted at Tinker Field, will be featuring various reggae, calypso, socca, and hip-hop bands and artists such as Michael Montano, Shurwayne Wincester, Dungku, Traffix, and many more. During this weekend festival, one can also see various costumes and dances during the parades and watch steelband and calypso competitions for a taste of unique Caribbean music. Make sure to keep some strong coffee at hand during this festival, though, because the parties go late. From 2 am to 6 am on Sunday morning is the traditional Carnival event J'ouvert, which literally translated from French means "day open." J'ouvert is a large street party where one can enjoy classic Caribbean-style music and dancing. For an entire weekend of fantastic Caribbean culture and convivial, Mardi Gras-style celebration, drop by Tinker Field this Memorial Day weekend.
